IMPORTANT NOTICE
LOG IN
JOIN US
Search
Close this search box.
IMPORTANT NOTICE

Australian Embassy Updates

Daily Updates on COVID-19

Headlines summary as of 30 June 2020

June 30, 2020

News

  • Updates related to COVID-19:
    • Today Thailand reports two newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,171 cases. Out of the total number, 3,056 have been discharged from hospital (or at 96.37%); 57 are being hospitalised. The death toll is still at 58. The new cases arrived from Qatar and have been in state quarantine. This is the 36th consecutive days that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
    • Today, the cabinet will make a decision whether to approve the proposal by the CCSA to extend the state of emergency until 31 July.
    • The PM defended the extension of the emergency decree yesterday by citing that the 5th phase of restriction easing are for those businesses which are at “high-risk”, so the decree is needed for coordination of the authorities. He denied the allegation that the decree is used for political gains.  
    • The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued its order allowing six groups of foreigners to be allowed to enter Thailand:
      • Those who hold work permits, including their spouse or children
      • Those who are spouses, parents or children of a Thai national
      • Those who hold a valid certificate of residence, or permission to take up residence in Thailand
      • Those seeking medical treatment and their attendants, excluding COVID-19 treatment
      • Foreign students & their parents/ guardians
      • Those who are granted special permission ( e.g. guests of the government / investors)
    • Chinese chargé d’affaires presented face masks and medical kits from the Chinese government to PM Prayut at the

Politics

  • In the first appearance after nominated as the main ruling Palang Pracharat Party (PPRP) leader on Saturday, Deputy PM Prawit just answered the media on what would be the prospect of the “Fantastic 4” groups under Deputy PM Somkid wing who just lost their leadership roles in the party. The PPRP leader said “let me see how they can contribute to the party”. He told the media that there is no contacts from the group about its resignation.
  • DPM Somkid spoke at a venue about SMEs policy but made a comment about the recent dissolution of the Parliament in Singapore. He said that Singaporean government sees the upcoming recession storm is coming, that’s why they dissolve the parliament to elect a new effective government.—all media outlet
  • Government spokesperson turned down the news report on her prospective role as the leader of the economic team in the PPRP. She also dismissed rumours of strained relations between the party’s new leadership and the government’s economic team headed by DPM Somkid.—all media outlet

Business:

CPTPP

  • Department of Trade Negotiation’s Director-General Auramon supports for Thailand to join the CPTPP negotiation.  She reasons that Thailand could negotiate for a transition period on clauses it deem sensitive; an arrangement similarly adopted by existing members.  If this is not possible and Thailand appears to be at a disadvantage, Thailand could always withdraw from the negotiation process.  For example, Malaysia and Mexico asked for a 4-year transition period before they join the UPOV clause.  https://www.thansettakij.com/content/439556

Tourism

  • Tourism and Sports Ministry is working with designated destinations to accommodate tourists under the travel bubble scheme, with the hope that tourism can resume in August.  The tourist quota set for each destination depends on the healthcare capacity of each province, with five destinations in southern Thailand eyed for pilot projects.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1942996/august-targeted-for-beach-holidays
  • Bangkok Dusit Medical Services has entered into an agreement with China-based Ping An Health Insurance to tap the lucrative Chinese medical tourist market.  Through this diversification, BDMS expects to attract 1,000-4,000 Chinese patients per year, generating 1-2 billion baht once travel returns to normal.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1943012/bdms-ping-an-health-ink-agreement

Aviation

  • NookScoot is shutting down its business due to the impacts of the pandemic and will leave 450 staff unemployed.  However, its closure is unlikely to have significant repercussions on the domestic aviation industry. The budget airline is a joint venture between Singapore-based Scoot and SET-listed Nok Airlines Plc.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1942992/industry-unfazed-by-nokscoot-closure

Others

  • Huawei Technologies Thailand said Thailand is a 5G technology leader in ASEAN because it is an early adopter.  Tourism and healthcare are expected to benefit most from 5G, with telemedicine already put to good use in the past month to diagnose suspected Covid-19 infections.  The 5G could be used to promote tourism, such as organising multimedia tours and smart farms.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1943044/5g-a-boon-for-tourism-healthcare
  • Freelance workers and labourers ages between 60-65 years can now contribute to Social Security Fund under Section 40, effective from 24 June onward.  They can choose to contribute based on 3 schemes; 70 Baht, 100 Baht or 300 Baht contributions monthly.  Source:  National News Bureau fb page, 30 June 2020

Headlines summary as of 29 June 2020

June 29, 2020

News

  • Updates related to COVID-19:
    • Today Thailand reports 7 newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,169 cases. Out of the total number, 3,053 have been discharged from hospital (or at 96.34%); 58 are being hospitalised. The death toll is still at 58. The new cases arrived from India (6) and US (1) and have been in state quarantine. This is the 35th consecutive days that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
    • Over the weekend, Thailand reports no new confirmed cases, including imported case from aboard.
    • The secretary-general of the National Security Council reiterated the significance of extending security decree as the country is moving towards the 5th phase of easing, despite calls by political parties to scrap it as soon as possible. The CCSA will make a decision today and will need to be sealed by the cabinet tomorrow.
    • As the CCSA aims to extend the state of emergency, ‘Medical coup’ fears spread as decree gives Prayuth sweeping powers.—Nikkei Asian Review
    • Breaking: The CCSA has reached a decision to extend the emergency decree for one more month.
    • The CCSA outlines businesses to be re-opened the 5th phase of easing: educational institutions, department stores, night clubs & karaoke (operate until midnight), internet cafes, soapy massage parlours,

Politics

  • PPRP party convention was held on Saturday:
    • It is not beyond expectation that Deputy PM and the party strategist Prawit was unanimously nominated as the party leader and Mr Anoocha as the party secretary-general.
    • The former leadership Finance Minister Uttama, Energy Minister Sondhirat who formerly served as the PPRP leader and the secretary-general are no longer part of the party executives.
    • Super Poll published its survey showing that a majority of people feel sorry to see the so-called “Fantastic 4” (Ministers under Deputy PM Somkid’s clique) dethroned by the PPRP. 66.3% of the so-called silent majority felt sympathetic towards the group.—Thai Post, Manager
    • The new party secretary-general said Prof Dr Narumon, the current government spokesperson, as the party treasurer will lead the economic team for main ruling party. Mr Anoocha said that the team will include “big names” in business.
    • The movement to place the government spokesperson as the new economic czar was not well-received by the media.—Matichon, Krungthep Turakij, Post Today, Manager, Bangkok Post
    • An exclusive interview with the Deputy Party leader Paibul Nititawan was published on Thai Enquirer
  • As the main ruling PPRP shifts its leadership, including the removal of the current economic czar and his clique from portfolio could sap momentum for joining the trade agreement.. In “Thailand’s TPP stance on the line as ex-general heads ruling party”.—Nikkei Asian Review
  • An opinion survey by the National Institute Development Administration (NIDA) asking people in the 2nd quarter who they see as the most appropriate person to be the Prime Minister and which political party they support. The result shows that 44.06 % thinks no one is appropriate, 25.47% thinks current PM Prayut is the most eligible, followed by main opposition Pheu Thai Party Chief Strategist Sudarat. As for political party, 32.38% said they do not support any political party, 20.7% said they support Pheu Thai Party, the main ruling PPRP’s support is at 15.73% (from 16.69% in December 2019), Move Forward Party came fourth at 13.47%. –Thai Post
  • A media report laid out “5 steps roadmap” of the 3Ps (Prayut, Prawit and ‘Pok’ Anupong) to secure the continuity of political power. The first step was the coup and install General Prayut as the Prime Minister for as long as possible. Then the second step was to set up a new political party with the help of the government economic czar DPM Somkid to compete in the last general election. The third phase is to have DPM Prawit lead the PPRP as its interim leader as long as the health of DPM Prawit allows; or until all the local election have been held. The fourth step will be to have PM Prayut seats as the PPRP leader and the number one on the Party list MP to boost legitimacy in the next election. The last phase will be to secure the political heir of PM Prayut, potentially Army Chief Apirat who, according to the Constitution, needs to be exempted from holding political positions for two years after finishing Senator term.—Siam Rath

Business:

Tourism

CPTPP

  • The CPTPP Committee established by the Parliament proposes that the deadline for completing its studies on Thailand’s accession be postponed to 25 July.  The Committee is exploring the possibility of exempting Thai rice seeds from the UPOV clause, the disadvantages of opening Thailand’s pork market to Canada, pharmaceutical IP, and the establishment of the Free Trade Agreement Fund to help local farmers.  Source: https://www.prachachat.net/economy/news-481407

Others

Headlines summary as of 26 June 2020

June 26, 2020

News

  • Updates related to COVID-19:
    • Today Thailand reports 4 newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,162 cases. Out of the total number, 3,040 have been discharged from hospital (or at 96.14%); 64 are being hospitalised. The death toll is still at 58. The new cases arrived from Sudan and UAE and have been in state quarantine. This is the 32nd consecutive days that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
    • Yesterday, the National Security Council as the chair of a sub-committee in CCSA has reached a decision to extend the emergency decree for the third time until 31 July. The decision will need to pass through the CCSA on Monday and the cabinet on Tuesday for resolution.
  • Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) said heroin has made a comeback on the drug scene with more youths, who are unaware of hidden dangers, using the narcotic. The ONCB’s anti-drug operation centre has taken note of the rising number of teenagers aged between 15-18 admitted to rehabilitation programmes for heroin addiction.—all media outlet

Politics

  • Breaking: The Supreme Court has sentenced two years and eight month jail term without suspension upon four core members of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (Red-shirt protesters) for their alleged roles in the siege of late Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda’s residence in 2007. The four core members includes Veerakarn, Nattawut, Wiputhalaeng and Dr. Weng.
  • The Criminal Court on Thursday morning handed down the ruling on the case in which Thanet Anantawong had been charged for making five Facebook posts in 2015 criticising the now-defunct National Council for Peace and Order and the army, after being detained for almost four years.—all media outlet
  • Speaking at the National Police Headquarter yesterday, the PM said he the students should focus on their study to get a decent job. He said the students should not “waste their brains with some non-sense things”.—all media outlet
  • There is a discrepancy of explanation between the Police and other security apparatus on what the motive of the recent discovered cache of armoury is. The former said the weapons were intended to be used to stir political unrest and the latter said it involves illicit drug groups.—all media outlet

Business:

CPTPP

  • The Parliament-appointed CPTPP Committee has asked for an extension on the deadline to complete their studies on the impacts of Thailand’s accession, which originally has a 30-day timeframe and is due on 10 July.  The committee needs more time to explore controversial issues such as pharmaceutical patent and UPOV clause.  The new deadline is to be decided by the committee at their meeting next week.  https://www.thaipost.net/main/detail/69618 https://www.thansettakij.com/content/Macro_econ/439663

EEC

  • Advanced Info Service (AIS) will support the 5G network in the EEC with a focus on ICT infrastructure to enhance the management capability in the ground, air and marine sectors.  In the EEC, Amata Corporation, Saha Pathana Inter Holding and WHA Group have begun 5G testing under Smart City initiatives. BBS Joint Venture Group has kick-started the testing of 5G smart airport features in preparation at U-tapao Airport.  The 5G testing was also carried out by the Port Authority of Thailand in the Laem Chabang area.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1941232/ais-looks-to-leverage-5g-network-in-eec

Tourism

  • The Public Health Ministry committee assigned to evaluate Covid-19 situation is preparing proposals on the reopening of the tourism industry, including the travel bubble concept, for consideration by the Covid-19 Situation Administration Centre on Monday.  The Committee Head contended that Thailand might have to allow new infections to occur if it wants the economy to get back on track.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1941088/bubble-tourism-wears-flak
  • Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) is urging the government to hasten bilateral agreements with 20 low-risk provinces in China for the second half of the year, including setting a daily quota of 200-300 tourists from the mainland.  ATTA will also request that the Labour Ministry extend the 62 percent aid from the Social Security Fund to the end of the year.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1941196/operators-pin-hopes-on-low-risk-chinese-areas

Others

  • Finance Ministry’s first blockchain savings bonds worth 200 million Baht were sold out in 99 seconds.  The savings bonds are part of the government’s economic rehabilitation plan to encourage low-income earners to save money in risk-free assets.  Source:  https://www.pdmo.go.th
  • Energy Ministry is investing 230 billion Baht in energy development projects to stimulate the post-pandemic economy.  Of this figure, 200 billion Baht will go to EGAT and PTT, while the remaining 30 billion Baht will be allocated to Energy for All Scheme.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1941212/energy-spending-sped-up
  • Commerce Ministry’s Department of International Trade Promotion urges its Thai Trade Centres in China to promote Thai exports through online channels.  Chinese online platforms have increased significantly since the pandemic outbreak.  Source:  https://www.nationthailand.com/news/3039028
  • Thai Airways is seeking help from authorities after the Airports of Thailand (AoT) recalled over 50 percent of the check-in counters and aircraft stands at Suvarnabhumi airport.  This is because Thai Airways has lost its status as a state-owned enterprise and therefore no longer holds privileges over the use of facilities and equipment at the airport.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1941220/thai-airways-feels-loss-of-state-owned-enterprise-status
  • Property owners will no longer be required to report the presence of foreign tenants in their properties as often as they do now, starting from next Tuesday.  The Immigration Bureau has changed the reporting frequency in Section 38 of the Immigration Act to only when they arrive.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1941048/tm30-reporting-rule-on-foreigners-eased

ASEAN/World

  • The 36th ASEAN Summit has begun via teleconference, pledging to cooperate in curbing the spread of COVID-19.

Headlines summary as of 25 June 2020

June 25, 2020

News

  • Updates related to COVID-19:
    • Today Thailand reports a newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,158 cases. Out of the total number, 3,038 have been discharged from hospital (or at 96.2%); 62 are being hospitalised. The death toll is at 58. The new case arrived from Egypt and has been in state quarantine. This is the 31st consecutive days that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
    • At the National Infectious Disease Committee meeting yesterday, the head of Disease Control Department said in the first stage of travel bubble, Thailand aims to sign an MoU with COVID low risk countries like New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Taiwan and with some Chinese cities.

Politics

  • Deputy PM Somkid delivered a keynote speech at the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives yesterday with a strong political message by saying that “If the present team cannot get the job done, they should not stay on” and that “If the new team has no ideas about how to do it, or cannot do it, then don’t come. “What is the point of change?”. It is reported that the economic czar and 3 ministers under his wing will very likely be sacked in the next cabinet reshuffle, as they lost their leadership in the main ruling Palang Pracharat Party.
  • PM Prayut attended the opening ceremony of Chao Phraya Sky Park — the first public park over the Chao Phraya River yesterday. He said that he would like to be a bridge for the people to cross-over.
  • Yesterday, as activists held an anniversary of the revolution in 1932, the army organised its own ceremony to mark the anniversary with a religious ceremony for pro-monarchy rebels who attempted to restore the king’s absolute rule. Army Chief Apirat  has ordered this unprecedented ceremony.

Business

  • Thailand’s export in May declined to the lowest in 4 years by -22.5 percent YoY, and import by -34.4 percent, resulting in a USD 2.69 billion trade surplus.  In steep decline was Thailand’s export of automobile and parts (-62.6 percent), while gold export surged (+735 percent).  This led Commerce Ministry to admit that Thailand’s annual export may shrink by more than 5 percent.  From January – May, Thai export contracted by 3-.71 percent (USD 97.9 billion) and import by -11.6 percent (USD 88.8 billion), leaving a trade surplus of USD 9.09 billion.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1940612/state-agrees-export-dip-exceeds-5-
  • The Bank of Thailand (BOT) kept its policy rate on hold at 0.50 percent yesterday to preserve policy space.  It forecasted steeper GDP contraction of 8.1 percent for 2020; worse than the 1997 Tom Yum Kung crisis.  The Thai economy will hit rock bottom in Q2 with a double-digit decline, but will rebound in 2021 by 5 percent.  For 2020, export is projected to decline by 10.3 percent, for which the central bank will continue to monitor the Baht appreciation.  Tourist arrival is projected to shrivel to 8 million.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1940620/bot-forecasts-record-contraction
  • The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has signed an MoU with the Department of Airports (DoA) to support 5G technology for its regional airports, with Krabi airport serving as a pilot project.  The move is part of the smart airport project.  AIS, True Move and Huawei collaborate on providing the 5G solution.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1940568/nbtc-signs-deal-with-airports-to-back-5g
  • The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has appointed permanent Secretary Anant Suwanrat to chair the taskforce for agricultural development in the EEC.  The task force aims to promote the use of modern technology to promote the marketing and processing of agricultural products; use market demand to guide manufacturing plans and develop 5 basic cluster groups.  Source:  https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30390201

ASEAN/World

  • Former DPM and FM Surakiat Sathirathai published his opinion piece in Bangkok Post on Peace, security in Asia is possible if the will is there.
  • A media interviewed the 3rd Army Area Commander about the discover of armoury cache near Mae Sot District, Tak province. The commander said the armoury might involves three possible groups: illicit drug, illegal labours and those with political motives. The commander said that part of M79 grenade launchers which were widely used to stir political turmoils in Bangkok in early 2010s are reportedly from this area. The media asked about the Chinese special economic zone in Shwe Kokko town. The commander said the investment may impact Thailand security on employment, illegal gambling and transnational crime.—Inside Thailand Thai News Agency.

Headlines summary as of 24 June 2020

June 24, 2020

News

  • Updates related to COVID-19:
    • Today Thailand reports a newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,157 cases. Out of the total number, 3,026 have been discharged from hospital (or at 95.85%); 73 are being hospitalised. The death toll is at 58. The new cases arrived from the Philippines and has been in state quarantine. This is the 30th consecutive days that there is no local transmission in Thailand.
    • CCSA spokesperson discussed the 5th phase of restriction easing to include nightclubs, pubs, karaoke, massage parlours, internet cafes. The department stores will be allowed to operate without any restriction (currently until 9pm).
    • CCSA spokesperson briefly explained about the easing of restrictions for foreigners entering Thailand. The decision will be made on Monday. CCSA divides its measures for two schemes:
      • The first scheme is to allow five groups of foreigners who have registered to enter Thailand with compulsory state quarantine:
        • businesspersons/investors (700 registered)
        • skilled labours/specialists (15,400 registered)
        • foreigners who married to a Thai/ have a permanent residency in Thailand (2,000 registered)
        • International teachers, instructors and students (2,000 registered)
        • Medical & wellness tourists (around 30,000 registered)
        • CCSA spokesperson says easing the regulations for these five groups could be done from now on.
      • The second scheme is for two groups of foreigners entering Thailand with the exemption of state quarantine:
        • Businesspersons/ investors on short-duration stays and government guests (COVID-19 tests at pre-departure and upon arrival, including with medical team to accompany the travel). CCSA said they could start easing the regulations for this group from 1 July.
        • Tourists under travel bubble
          • Villa Quarantine could start as soon as 1 August
          • Relaxed state quarantine could start when the society shows confidence in the government measures (aka no objection from Thai people)
    • CCSA spokesperson said CCSA is discussing the idea of “local alternative state quarantine” in other major regional provinces. Now, there are alternative state quarantine
    • Yesterday, the dean of the prestigious Siriraj medical school warned that the second wave of the COVID-19 transmission in Thailand is feasible, though it has been 28 days without local transmission.
    • The PM said after the weekly cabinet meeting that it is necessary to extend the enforcement of emergency decree to take control of the pandemic situation. But he said he will soften the restrictions under the decree. The CCSA will decide this Friday what kind of businesses will be allowed to re-opened.
  • The cabinet has approved the holiday from 4-7 July. This is not a part of the three days postponed during Songkran festival.
  • Thailand’s Cabinet has approved draft laws on prevention of torture and forced disappearances, a measure that has long been sought by human rights activists.–AP
  • Thai schools are holding rehearsals to prepare students for classes in the coronavirus era, giving lessons in hygiene and social distancing to children ahead of next week’s return. Ministry of Education has arranged July, 1st as the day the rest of the educational institutions (international schools and tuition schools have been allowed to re-opened)–Reuters

Politics

  • Developments related to the 88th anniversary of the 1932 revolution which ended absolute monarchy in Thailand:
    • Yesterday, the police said they have discovered a huge cache of armoury in Mae Sot district, Tak province along Thai-Burmese border zone. The police suspects that the weapons might be used to instigate unrest in today’s protests.
    • This morning, a group of protestor started mobilise at 5am to replicate the announcement of the first order of the People’s Party. So far, there has been no objection by the police to hold events. There are more events to be held in Bangkok CBD and other provinces to commemorate the day.
    • Certain historical statues have been disappearing in Thailand, but they are not effigies of colonialists or slave owners torn down by protesters. Instead, Thailand’s vanishing monuments celebrated leaders of the 1932 revolution that ended absolute monarchy in Thailand, who were once officially honoured as national heroes and symbols of democracy.–Reuters
  • The PM introduced the idea of “Thai unity for the nation” รวมไทยสร้างชาติ to invite all related parties
  • The Election Commission (EC) moved to launch a probe into allegations of vote-buying in the by-election in Lampang’s constituency 4 after former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn’s claim that large amounts of cash were offered to voters in exchange for them to cast ballots for candidate of the main ruling Palang Pracharat Party (PPRP).—all media outlet
  • The Cabinet approved extra allowances for district heads and village heads for 7 months as rewards for their hard work to help the government fight the COVID-19 outbreak.—all media outlet

Business

  • The Cabinet has approved the framework on standards and conformity that aim to reduce non-tariff barriers on agri-products trading among ASEAN countries.  The Multilateral Arrangement for the Mutual Recognition of Agri-food Standards and Conformity Assessment will be discussed by the Asean Mutual Recognition Arrangement Task Force in June.  Source:  https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30390197
  • The Bank of Thailand is tweaking the approval processes to give SMEs easier access to its 500 billion Baht soft loan.  The loan adjustment is to be completed by this month.  So far, only 15,991 SMEs have applied for the BOT’s soft loans, worth 80.7 billion Baht.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1939996/central-bank-tweaks-b500bn-soft-loan-scheme-for-smes
  • Export-Import Bank of Thailand revealed that insurance claims soared 226 percent and foreign buyers’ delayed payment amount surged 195 percent in the first five months of 2020.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1940004/exim-reports-insurance-claims-spike
  • Thailand’s food export value is projected to dip by 3 percent in 2020 from an earlier target of 1.02-1.06 trillion Baht.  The lockdown and tourism ban have reduced demands for Thai food, while the industry is expected to see slow recovery.  Export value for the January-April period this year fell by 2.2 percent YoY to 368 billion Baht.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1940100/food-export-value-tipped-to-fall-3-on-virus-impact
  • Commerce Ministry’s Department of Intellectual Property said the CPTPP does not prohibit the use of Compulsory Licensing (CL) for drugs.  DIP added that the drug CL under CPTPP will comply with the WTO’s regulations focusing on the use for non-commercial purposes.  Source:  National News Bureau of Thailand fb page, 22 June 2020

EEC

  • The Board of Investment (BOI) and Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Office are rejigging promotional privileges for five new S-curve industries to make them more enticing for foreign investment.  The new five S-curve industries are robotics, aviation & logistics, digital, biofuels & biochemical and medical services.  Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1939348/boi-eec-to-hurry-new-s-curve-perks
  • The construction of a 2.37 billion Baht ‘smart park’ industrial zone in Rayong province is to begin in early 2021 and completed in 3 years.  The project is part of the EEC and was approved in January.  The smart park will adopt advanced industrial technology, communications, transport and energy systems.  Source: https://www.nationthailand.com/business/30390089
  • The development of U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City is set to take off after U-Tapao International Aviation Co Ltd (BBS Group) signed a joint investment agreement with EEC Office on June 19.  The Covid-19 outbreak has had only a slight impact on the aviation city project.  Meanwhile, no bids have been made for the MRO centre yet.  Source: https://www.nationthailand.com/business/30390038

Others

  • The Defence Ministry has set sights on luring foreign investments into Thailand’s first defence 3,000 rai industrial estate in Bo Phloi district, Kanchanaburi province under the public-private partnership model.  It is part of the government’s move to position Thailand as a global arms trader; defence being the 11th target S-curve industry.  Kanchanaburi is also a Special Economic Zone.  Source:  https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1939912/defence-tied-industrial-estate-on-tap

ASEAN/World

  • Singaporean PM announced a snap election to be held on July, 10th , citing the situation in Singapore is “relatively stable”. –all media outlet

Australia

  • ABC news published an article praising village health volunteer as the key to the successful story of Thailand in curbing COVID-19, despite being the first outside of China to detect a case of COVID-19 back in January. James Wise, the former Ambassador’s views was cited in the article.—ABC News

Headlines summary as of 23 June 2020

June 23, 2020

News

News  

  • Updates related to COVID-19:
    • Today Thailand reports five newly confirmed cases, a total of 3,156 cases. Out of the total number, 3,023 have been discharged from hospital (or at 95.79%); 75 are being hospitalised. The death toll is at 58. The five new cases arrived from Egypt and Qatar and have been in state quarantine. This is the 29th consecutive day that there is no local transmission in Thailand. 
    • CCSA plans to allow seven groups of foreigners to enter the country. The committee has divided these into two main groups.
      The first group may be required to undertake state quarantine on entry:
      1. Business persons and investors (around 700 have registered to enter).
      2. Skilled labourers and exporters who need to inspect factories or for specific business purposes (around 22,000 have registered).
      3. Foreigners married to Thais or permanent residents of Thailand (around 2,000 have registered).
      4. Medical and wellness tourists (around 30,000 have registered).
      The other group comprises travellers who won’t need to go into quarantine on entry:
      1. Businessman on short-duration stays, including those coming into the country for business discussions. This group might need a specific area and intense screening both before travel and at arrival at airports.
      2. Government guests who are invited for ceremonies or specific seminars.
      3. Tourists under the travel bubble.
      The CCSA aims to discuss the issue in-depth with the Cabinet after finalising the details.–National News Bureau of Thailand, Nation Thailand, Reuters
    • Thai scientists administered a second dose of an experimental COVID-19 vaccine to monkeys on Monday, looking for another positive response to enable clinical trials in humans as early as October.–all media outlet

Politics

  • Deputy PM Prawit accepted the invitation of the main ruling Palang Pracharat Party (PPRP) to be its party leader last night at his foundation. Earlier reports said that the party will reach out to him today at the party headquarters. The picture of the invitation was distributed to the media with key persons of the party. Interestingly, there was no member of the “Fantastic 4” group led by Deputy PM Somkid. DPM Prawit said I only accept this position because everyone is in unity, there should be no more conflict.–all media outlet 
  • Following the PPRP’s landslide win in the by-election in Lampang last weekend, former Election Commission (EC) member Somchai Srisutthiyakorn claimed that the by-election is mired with vote-buying.–all media outlet
  • The PM has warned those who may wish to mobilise on 24th June to commemorate the 88th anniversary of the revolution to install a constitution in Thailand not to stir any conflicts. The PM said, the people should know what kind of situation we are all in. Student Union of Thailand as well as other civil societies, particularly in the Northeast intend to gather and read the first announcement of the People’s Party.–all media outlet
  • A sergeant who exposed corruption in the army has been granted unconditional bail from a military court for the charge of unauthorised absence.–all media outlet
  • The Senate unanimously voted to pass the budget transfer bill to reallocate 88.452 billion baht to the government’s central budget fund to curb the effects of Covid-19.–all media outlet

Business

  • Last night, the Royal Gazette published issued a royal decree stating that companies that have organised domestic seminars or business trips for employees this year will be exempted from revenue tax for the services.–all media outlet
  • The United States and Brazil lodged separate protests with Thailand over its ban on two farm chemicals earlier this month, documents reviewed by Reuters show, saying the “restrictive” and “serious” move could hurt key agricultural exports.–Reuters
  • Kasikorn Research Centre (KResearch) expects the Bank of Thailand (BoT)’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to maintain its policy rate at 0.50% at its next meeting on June 24 to see the effects of the monetary and fiscal measures introduced earlier.

Politics

  • The result of the by-election in Constituency 4 of Lampang province over the weekend was not a surprise, as the main ruling Phalang Pracharat Party (PPRP) won another House seat in the, increasing the party’s majority in the House of Representatives. Wattana Sitthiwang won 61,824 votes over his main rival Lt Somboon Klapathon of Opposition Seri Ruam Thai party who received 37,869. The incumbent from the main Opposition Pheu Thai Party did not nominate their candidacy. The government holds 276 seats vs 212 seats of the Opposition.
  • Rifts in the main opposition Pheu Thai Party was in media attention when the party chief strategist Sudarat criticised those in the party who tried to set up a new political group (CARE); meanwhile, Mr Phumtham Wechayachai, one of the CARE group founder, posted on his social media account to countered the criticism.
  • Over the weekend, news on the cabinet reshuffle was in disarray with a conflicting set of possibility:
    • On Friday, a number of media reported that the PM was fuss with the reports on the prospective cabinet reshuffle and that he messaged DPM Somkind via Line to assure the economic czar that the reshuffle will not happen that soon, saying that the daily reports on the reshuffle are non-sense. The PM aims to do it after the budget bills passed. Today, the DPM declined to comment on the report.
    • Later on, some same media reported that the PM has asked the coalition party to submit the name list for the new portfolio by 7-9 July. 
    • It is reported that Pridee Daochay from KBank will take over DPM Somkid as the next economic czar.
    • The Action Coalition for Thailand Party (which the party leader just resigned) is eyeing to nominate political scientist Anek Laothamatas to be the next Higher Education Minister. Meanwhile, there are some reports on the current government spokesperson Narumon who is also eyeing for this position.
    • “Micro-parties” (with one seat PM each) are ganging up to negotiate to be in the portfolio. Two parties are planning to dissolve themselves to merge with PPRP. It is also reported that Chatchawal Kong-udom, business tycoon, the owner of Siam Rath newspapers and formerly involved in Bangkok’s underground gambling industry is eyeing for the Deputy Minister of Interior seat.
  • The Student Union of Thailand (SUT) revealed 4 names being “targeted” by those in power. One of that was an MP from Move Forward Party Mr Rome who questioned the authority heavily on the disappearance of Thai dissident Wanchalerm. This has sparked #SaveRome on Twitter and it has reached to 1M tweets on Friday.
  • The SUT has announced that they are planning to read the 1st declaration of the People’s Party which ended absolute monarchy in Thailand back in 1932 at the democracy monument on Wednesday. 
    • Media reports that the Democracy Monument in Bangkok and the Constitution Monument in the northeastern province of Khon Kaen are guarded by 

Business

  • The Bank of Thailand (BoT) came out late on Friday to announce that commercial banks in Thailand need to suspend interim dividend payments for this year and to delay share buybacks, in order to maintain strong capital reserves to help businesses when the COVID-19 situation eases. BOT governor said  protecting commercial banks is as important as immunizing the Thai people against the virus. The BoT’s strong capital position will enable the commercial banks to increase lending to help reboot the economy post-COVID-19.–all media outlet
  • Thailand’s central bank on Friday introduced additional debt relief measures, including interest rate cuts by 2-4 percentage points for credit cards and personal loans, to help debtors during the coronavirus outbreak. The maximum interest rate for credit cards will fall to 16% per year from 18%, while the rates for personal loans will be reduced to 24-25% from 28%, effective from Aug. 1.–Reuters

Become an AustCham member

Apply Now

© 2020 AustCham Thailand. All Rights Reserved​.

Term of use

Privacy Policy

PDPA Policy

Search

Log In

JOIN US

Thailand’s Personal Data Protection Act B.E. 2562 (2019) (“PDPA”)

As the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) also applies to personal data collected prior to the PDPA’s entry into force, please be informed that AustCham Thailand will automatically keep your contact details including email address, name and last name, and company details, on our mailing list.

Your data was received by AustCham Thailand as a result from you either registering or attending an event, contacting our office or subscribing to regular updates via the website. However, if you would like to stop receiving emails AustCham Thailand and revoke your consent for AustCham to keep and use your data to contact you for chamber events and updates, please scroll down to the end of this email and click “Unsubscribe from this list”. Your personal data will be shortly deleted once the opt-out notice request is received.

Please note that your data is kept in AustCham’s CRM system, please see here for AustCham’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. AustCham uses a management software system from Wild Apricot, and emails are distributed through MailChimp.

MEMBER LOG IN